When Your Apartment Sprinkler System Goes Off

3/11/2020 (Permalink)

The overhead sprinkler system in your apartment complex is there to keep tenants safe from possible fire damage, and everyone is glad the system is in place. However, when it does go off, there is going to be a mess to clean up. What should you do when your apartment complex sprinkler system goes off?

You know that it is important to handle any sort of water issues immediately in order to avoid the costly problems that can arise from your damp property, such as mold and mildew. Keep in mind that any intense heat will cause your sprinklers to discharge, and the sprinkler heads contain a temperature-sensitive mechanism that can only be activated when the temperature at the sprinkler head exceeds the allowable range, so make sure your tenants understand that they need to be careful with heat inside their units. You will also want to make sure that residents know never to hang items from the sprinkler heads, as this can damage them, as well as cause them to go off unexpectedly. 

Here are a few cleanup tips to consider when cleaning up after your overhead sprinkler system goes off:

• Prompt professional assistance following a sprinkler discharge could be vital in saving your property and your residents’ belongings from permanent damage. Your actions in the first 24-48 hours can save you significant time and money and eliminate subsequent mold growth. 
• Professional followup will also be a big help when it comes to odors, and they can evaluate the water damage and potential for mold growth in hidden areas as well as ensure that any affected building materials are dry prior to work area rebuilding. 
• We recommend that you hire an independent water damage and mold remediation expert to represent you during planning, response, and closeout, and work together with their insurance carrier. 
• Water within the sprinkler system is stagnant and non-potable, and the water picks up and absorbs oils and other contaminants within the piping, resulting in discoloration and odors from its sedimentary state. Cleanup actions typically not only involve moisture remediation but also involve surface cleaning from stains as well as additional measures to alleviate odors. 
• Prompt action for cleaning is essential when it comes to fabric and textile items that have been affected to minimize permanent staining and damage.

If your apartment complex has been affected by fire and water damage, whether from an overhead sprinkler system here at SERVPRO of Greenwood, Abbeville & McCormick Counties we are ready to help right away.